MIAMI, FLORIDA: Miami-based broker and influencer Daniela Rendon is facing accusations of misappropriating Covid-19 relief funds to support her extravagant lifestyle.
According to the New York Post, Rendon reportedly obtained $381,000 through the Small Business Administration and Paycheck Protection Program, based on information from the US Attorney for the Southern District of Florida.
However, it's alleged that rather than using the Covid-19 funds to maintain the financial stability of her employees during the pandemic, she diverted the fraudulent payroll funds to friends and family for her personal benefit.
Who is Daniela Rendon?
Daniela Rendon is a 31-year-old influencer who dabbles in "ultra luxury" content. She identifies herself as a real estate agent on LinkedIn. Before her arrest, Rendon's social media profiles showcased her indulging in opulent experiences across Miami and other upscale locations.
While most of her social media accounts have been made private following her legal issues, her prior posts depicted her enjoying a luxurious lifestyle in various high-end settings.
How did Daniela Rendon misuse PPP cash?
Federal officials have detailed that Rendon misused a significant portion of the funds on luxury expenditures. She leased a 2021 Bentley Bentayga, rented a luxurious apartment overlooking Biscayne Bay, and invested in cosmetic procedures.
Moreover, Rendon reportedly directed some of the government funds to even restore her designer shoes, indicating the blatant misuse of the relief money.
In an attempt to execute her scheme, Rendon employed a New Jersey-based payroll processor to manage the loans received through her corporate bank account.
She then directed checks towards her family and friends, a method that officials suggest was a way to channel the money for personal gain.
What is influencer Daniela accused of?
Daniela is alleged to have used the fraudulently obtained funds for her opulent lifestyle. According to prosecutors, she employed the money to acquire a range of lavish items.
Specifically, the complaint against her asserted that Rendon leased the aforementioned 2021 Bentley Bentayga, which had an estimated market value of approximately $181,000 (roughly Rs 1.49 crore) during that period. The details highlighted the alleged misappropriation of Covid-19 relief funds for personal gain.
Did Daniela Rendon appear before the court?
Daniela Rendon made an appearance in the Federal Magistrate court on February 2. She is currently facing prosecution for seven counts of wire fraud and money laundering.
If convicted, these charges carry a potential maximum sentence of 20 years. According to the Miami Herald, during her arraignment, the prosecution expressed concerns that she might pose a flight risk to her native country of Colombia. However, her defense team refuted this claim.
